BANBRIDGE ACADEMY PROSPECTUS 2021 - 2022 BANBRIDGE ACADEMY Contents
Staff List 4 School Hours & Holidays 8 Admissions Policy 9 Curriculum 18 Home work 24 The Pastoral System 25 Anti-Bullying Policy 26 Drugs Education Policy 28
Chairman of Board of Governors Positive Behaviour Policy 30 Mr D Livingstone School Uniform 36 Charging and Remissions 37 Principal Mr R S McLoughlin Examination Results 38 Parents and the School 43
Banbridge Academy, Lurgan Road, Banbridge, BT32 4AQ
T: 028 4062 3220 F: 028 4062 8122
E: [email protected] W: www.banbridgeacademy.org.uk
BANBRIDGE ACADEMY - ANNUAL INFORMATION 3 Staff at Banbridge Academy
Principal Mr R S McLoughlin, BSc, MEd, PQH (NI)
Vice Principals Mr D McFarland, BEd, MSc, PQH (NI) Mrs H Evans, BSc, MEd, PGCE, PQH (NI), EdD
Senior Teachers Mrs F Campbell, BSc, PGCE Mr W Cromie, BA, PGCE Mr A Hanlon, BSc, PGCE Mrs H Morrison, BSc, PGCE
Heads of Department Art Mrs O Casey, BA, PGCE Year Heads Year Biology Mrs S Tully, BSc, PGCE Mr A Kennedy/Mr J Clarke 14 Careers Mr S Bond, BA, MA, PGCE Miss A McClelland/Mrs D Dreaning 13 Chemistry Mrs J Glover, BSc, PGCE Mr M Cordner/Dr R Dobson 12 Economics Mr T Dempsey, BSc, PGCE Mrs J Neill/Miss J Cosgrove 11 English Miss L McConkey, MA, PGCE Mr J Erskine/Mrs J McCullagh 10 French Mrs C O’Shaughnessy, BA, PGCE Mr C Walker/Mr C Beacom 9 Geography Mr C Nash, BSc, PGCE Miss L Carson/Mr M Miskelly 8 German Mrs H Stewart, BA, PGCE History Mrs G Johnston, BA, PGCE Home Economics Miss L Elliott, BA, H Econs, DIS, PGCE House Staff House ICT Mr A Hanlon, BSc, PGCE Mr D Irwin Crozier Mathematics Mr D Irwin, BSc, PGCE Mrs K Curran Music Mrs D Robinson, BA, M.T.D.,LTCL Physical Education: Boys - Mr T Baxter, BA, PGCE Mr B Leslie Dunbar Girls - Mrs G Todd, BSc, DIP, PGCE Mrs J Leslie Physics Mr D Stewart, BSc, PGD, PGCE Psychology Mrs L Duke, BSc, MSc, PGDE, ALCM Mr M Miskelly McWilliam Religious Studies Mr W Brown, BEd Mrs J Glover Science Mr D Stewart, BSc, PGD, PGCE Spanish Miss K Poots, BA, PGCE Mr T Acheson Waddell Technology Mr G Winter, BEd Mrs D Dreaning
4 BANBRIDGE ACADEMY - ANNUAL INFORMATION Staff at Banbridge Academy
Full-time Teaching Staff Mr T Acheson, BSc, PGCE Mr J Farrell, BSc, PGCE Mrs P McKenzie, BA, PGCE Mrs H Adair, BA, PGCE Miss J Greenlee, MA, MEd, PGCE Mr M Miskelly, BEng, PGCE Mr C Beacom, BSc, PGCE Mrs B H Callan-Rushe, BEd, MEd Dr T Myers, BSc, MSc, PhD, PGDIT, PGCE Mrs R Beacom, BSc, PGCE Miss K Jess, BSc, PGCE Mrs J Neill, BA, MA, PGCE Miss L Carson, BA, MA, PGCE Mr S Jess, MSc, PGCE Mrs N Paolucci, BA, PGCE Mr J Clarke, BA, PGCE Mr A D Kennedy, BSc, MEd, PGCE Mr G Patterson, BA, MA, PGCE Mr M Cordner, BA, DIS, PGCE Mr B Leslie, BEd Mr G Robinson, BEng, PGCE Miss J Cosgrove, BSc, PGCE Mrs J Leslie, BSc, PGCE Mr P Smyth, BSc, PGCE Mrs K Curran, BA, PGCE Dr C Lorimer, BSc, PHd, PGCE Mrs L Topley-Willis, BA, PGCE Mr S Dawson, MSc, PGCE Miss A McClelland, BA, MA, PGCE Mrs F Topping, BSc, PGCE Dr R Dobson, BSc, PHd, PGCE Miss J McCormick, BA, PGCE Mr C Walker, MSci, PGCE Mrs D Dreaning, BSc, PGCE Mrs J McCullagh, BA, PGCE Mr J Erskine, BA, PGCE Miss E McCullough, BA, PGCE
Part-Time Teaching Staff Mrs R Armstrong, BA, PGCE Mrs H Lawther, BA, PGCE Dr L Bradford, PhD, PGCE Mrs N Shaw, BSc, PGCE Mrs H Cartmill, BA, PGCE Mrs R Thompson, BSc, PGCE Mrs G Gough, BA, PGCE Mrs H Topping, BA, PGCE Mrs S Hassard, BEd Mrs D Wilkinson, BA, MEd, PGCE Mrs B Kernaghan, BSc, PGCE
BANBRIDGE ACADEMY - ANNUAL INFORMATION 5 Auxiliary Staff
Financial Administrator Mrs C Neill, MA, MBA, AATQB Mr S Gilliland, BTEC HND
Principal’s PA Mrs S Johnston HE/Art Technician Mrs N Hazley
Secretarial Staff Mrs H Leathem Technology Technician Mr M McKinney, BSc Mrs A McCurdy Mrs D McRoberts Pupil Welfare Auxiliary Mrs H Singer, SRN, RSCN Mrs J Sayers Classroom Assistants Mrs J Anderson Mr M Bell Reprographics Technician Mrs L Cochrane Mrs K Cromie Mr D Duffin Library Assistant Ms K McEvoy, BA, PGCE Mrs S Gibbons Mrs B Hampton Y14 Study Supervisor Mr A Harvey Ms A McCourt Mrs N Stewart Support Staff Mr B O’Shaughnessy Building Supervisors Mr S Curry Laboratory Technicians Miss G McFall Mr J Kernaghan Miss L Shannon Mr S Sturgeon Foreign Language Assistants Mrs D Cunningham ICT Technician Mr J Curran, FDCompSci Miss M Baztan Peiro
6 BANBRIDGE ACADEMY - ANNUAL INFORMATION BANBRIDGE ACADEMY - ANNUAL INFORMATION 7 School Hours and Holidays
The school hours are as follows: A number of inter-schools games fixtures are held on Saturday mornings from 10.00am to 12.00 noon approximately. Monday to Friday: 9.00am to 3.25pm. The school will be open to receive pupils from 8.45am. All pupils not engaged in school- Pupils selected for school teams are expected to make organised activities should have left the premises by 3.45pm. participation a priority.
HOLIDAY ARRANGEMENTS PROVISIONAL
The school will be closed for the months of July and August (except for examinations results and advice on Higher Education and Further Education). A list of holiday arrangements is set out below. Information about holidays and school closures will be confirmed with parents at the beginning of September.
PROVISIONAL Holiday List 2021/2022
Term 1 Induction Days Monday 30 & Tuesday 21 August 2021 First Day of Term (All pupils) Wednesday 1 September 2021 Prize Day Friday 22 October 2021 Mid Term Break Monday 25 October – Friday 29 October 2021 End of Term Friday 17 December 2021
Term 2 First Day of Term Monday 3 January 2022 Mid Term Break Monday 14 – Friday 18 February 2022 ATTENDANCE Bank Holiday Thursday 17 March 2022 Full attendance is expected of all pupils End of Term Friday 8 April 2022 at all levels. Only in cases involving medical or other exceptional Term 3 circumstances are pupils permitted to First of Term Monday 25 April 2022 Bank Holiday Monday 2 May 2022 be absent. Parents are expressly asked Bank Holiday Thursday 2 – Friday 3 June 2022 not to arrange family holidays in term End of Term Thursday 30 June 2022 time.
8 BANBRIDGE ACADEMY - ANNUAL INFORMATION Controlled Grammar Approved Admissions Number for 2021: 184 Admissions Policy Co-Educational Approved Enrolment Number for 2021: 1320 Age Range 11 - 18 Principal: Mr R S McLoughlin BSc, MEd, PQH Chairperson of the Board of Governors: Mr Dennis Livingstone
Respective functions of the Board of Governors and Principal in An Open Night for pupils of P7 and their parents relation to Admissions to the school will be held virtually Banbridge Academy is a co-educational non-denominational controlled grammar school. The Board of Governors of Banbridge An interactive video, prospectus and brochure will Academy has approved the criteria for admission described below, be placed on our school website and delegated to its Education Committee, in conjunction with the Principal, the responsibility of applying its admissions criteria to TO PARENTS / GUARDIANS naming Banbridge Academy identify which children are to be admitted to Banbridge Academy. (hereinafter referred to as ‘the School’) as a preference on your This includes decisions in respect of Special Provisions. child’s Online Transfer Application
The Board of Governors of Banbridge Academy remains firmly 1. ADMISSION CRITERIA FOR ENTRY OF PUPILS TO YEAR 8 IN committed to academic selection as a method of entry to the School. SEPTEMBER 2021 In this unprecedented year, due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the cancellation of the Common Entrance Assessment administered by When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Association of Quality Education (AQE), alternative criteria have the Education Committee will only take into account information been adopted, as outlined below. which is detailed on or uploaded with the online application. It is the responsibility of parents/guardians to make sure that all information Special Provisions pertaining to their child and relevant to the School’s admissions If you are making a claim for your child to be considered under criteria, as outlined below, is stated on or uploaded with the online Special Provisions, please read carefully the information given in the application. Parents/Guardians should note that they may be relevant section below. Please note that you are required to upload required to produce documents verifying information pertinent to with the online application all such material as you consider will the School’s admissions criteria. assist the Education Committee in determining if Special Provisions apply. If the number of applications is greater than the Admissions Number determined by the Department of Education, the following criteria (to Claims for consideration for a child under Special Provisions will be include sub-criteria) shall be applied in the order listed below until examined and decided upon before the application of any of the the point where the admissions number is reached. Admissions Criteria. If there are fewer applicants complying with a particular criterion or Parents/Carers who wish to apply to the School under Special sub-criterion than there are places available or remaining, those Provisions should complete Form SP20 obtainable from AQE or the applicants complying with that criterion or sub-criterion will be School and upload it with appropriate documentation described in admitted and the next criterion or sub-criterion will be applied to the section 2. remaining applicants;
Parents should note that they will be required to produce documents If there are more applicants complying with a particular criterion or verifying information pertinent to the School’s Admissions Criteria sub-criterion than there are places available or remaining, those after they have been notified of the offer of a place at the school.
BANBRIDGE ACADEMY - ANNUAL INFORMATION 9 Admissions Policy
applicants complying with that criterion or sub-criterion will go of attendance on the online application]. forward to be considered under the next criterion or sub-criterion iv. Children who are registered at a Primary School from and those not complying with that criterion or sub-criterion will be which pupils have been admitted to Banbridge eliminated. Academy in three out of the past five years, a list is available below**. 1.1 Children resident in Northern Ireland at the time of their v. Those choosing Banbridge Academy as first proposed admission will be selected for admission to the preference will be admitted before those listing the School before any child not so resident. School as second preference and so on. vi. Children will be ranked for acceptance on the basis of 1.2 The Board of Governors will consider for admission into a computer-based process which will make use of the Year 8 those applicants who were entered for the Common names as entered on the online application. Entrance Assessment (CEA) provided by AQE. The process is carried out by means of a computer The AQE candidate number must be entered on the online programme which, for each applicant, generates a application and if available the AQE Registration Letter or ranking number using the details from the online the AQE Examination Card should be uploaded. Children application as the seed for a random number generator. who were not entered for the CEA, because they would The outcome, for any given applicant, is dependent only have been entitled to apply for Special Provisions as set on the applicant’s name (as entered on the online out below, will also be considered. application), and is not affected by the details of any other applicant. Although the process is repeatable, and 1.3 Places will then be allocated using the following sub- the results may therefore be subsequently verified, it is criteria, in the order listed: not possible to predict, in advance of running the i. Children who, at the date of their application have a programme, what the result will be for any given set of sibling 1 currently in the School [state name(s) and details. Applicants with the lowest ranking numbers will Registration Group(s) on the online application]. be given places up to the number of places available. 1Sibling is defined as another child of the family Further details may be obtained from the Principal. [Article 2(2) of the Domestic Proceedings (NI) Order 1980], to include: adopted/fostered children, half- If there are still places available after consideration of all the children brothers and sisters and orphaned cousins being who were entered for the AQE Common Entrance Assessment and brought up with a family. Special Provisions, the School will consider for admission any children ii. Children who are the eldest 2 child of the family to be who were not entered for the Common Entrance Assessment eligible to transfer to a mainstream Post-Primary administered by AQE. Such children, if they satisfy Criterion 1.1, will School (details to be supplied on the online be allocated to the remaining place(s) up to the School’s Admissions application). Number using the sub-criteria listed in section 1.3 in the order set 2Eldest covers ‘only’ children as well as twins (or out. other multiples) who are treated as joint eldest. iii. Children who have had a sibling 1 attend the School [state name(s) and Registration Group(s) and year(s)
10 BANBRIDGE ACADEMY - ANNUAL INFORMATION Admissions Policy
2. SPECIAL PROVISIONS This information will be requested from those whose applications Special Provisions will only apply to children who have not entered have been successful when they have been notified of their for the CEA because they took up residence in Northern Ireland after allocation of a place at Banbridge Academy. 9 October 2020 or received more than half of their primary education outside Northern Ireland. Parents/Guardians should also note if the requested evidence is not provided to the Board of Governors by the deadline given, this will Parents/carers who wish to apply to the School under Special result in the withdrawal of an offer of a place. Similarly, if Provisions should complete Form SP20, obtainable from AQE or the information is supplied which appears to be false or misleading in School, stating the precise reason why they believe the child is any material way, the offer of a place will be withdrawn. eligible for consideration under Special Provisions and upload it with appropriate evidence with the Transfer Application by 16 March 2021. Using the information provided, the Board of Governors will 5. ADMISSIONS TO YEAR 8 FOLLOWING THE CONCLUSION OF THE determine whether Special Provisions applies. If it does, those TRANSFER PROCESS children who the Board of Governors considers to be eligible will be included under Criterion 1.2 of the Admissions Criteria. Banbridge Academy operates a separate waiting list for Year 8. All applications for admission to Year 8 that were unsuccessful in 3. NOTE TO PARENTS/GUARDIANS obtaining a place in the school will be automatically added to the waiting list. New applications and applications where new It is the responsibility of parents/guardians to ensure that the online information has been provided will also be added to the waiting list. application is completed in full and that all relevant information is The Year 8 waiting list will be in place until 30 June 2022. Please recorded on, or attached to, the online application by the date of contact the School if you wish your child’s name to be removed from receipt by the School. the list. Should a vacancy arise after the completion of the Transfer Procedure and should there be more applications than places If the Board of Governors becomes aware of any irregularity in the available, the procedure outlined above in the Admissions Criteria AQE number quoted on the online application, it reserves the right for entry of children to Year 8 will be followed. The School will to reject the application made on behalf of the child for admission contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the School by this to the School. method.
4. DUTY TO VERIFY - THE VERIFICATION OF INFORMATION PROVIDED Should the Education Committee of the Board of Governors determine that a child, who has arrived in Northern Ireland after the Parents/Guardians should note that the information contained within Transfer Process has been concluded, is suitable for admission, it will an application that qualifies the child for admission may be verified. seek approval from the Department of Education to admit the child through the allocation of an additional place. The Board of Governors therefore reserves the right to require such supplementary evidence as it may determine to support or verify information on any online application.
BANBRIDGE ACADEMY - ANNUAL INFORMATION 11 Admissions Policy
Applications and Admissions to Year 8 application each year using the School Application Form and provide the most recent school reports from their present or previous Year Admission Total Total school(s). Full details, including the Application Form, may be No Applications all Admissions obtained by writing to the Principal’s Secretary, Banbridge Academy, Preferences Lurgan Road, Banbridge BT32 4AQ. 2018/2019 184 231 187* The Board of Governors of Banbridge Academy has approved the 2019/2020 184 217 186* criteria listed below and has delegated the task of applying these 2020/2021 184 276 190* criteria to the Education Committee, working in conjunction with the *Includes statemented pupils, those admitted under appeal or at the Principal. Further reference, therefore, to the Board of Governors direction of the `Exceptional Circumstances Body’ may imply the Education Committee or the Principal.
**Primary Schools from which Banbridge Academy has admitted In the event of the school being oversubscribed children will only be pupils in three out of the past five years considered for admission where the following apply:
Abercorn Maralin Village 1. The enrolment number has not been reached. Anahilt Milltown Ballydown Moira 2. There are places available in the relevant Year Group. Bocombra Mullaglass Bridge Integrated Portadown Integrated If the number of applications is greater than can be admitted within Bronte Poyntzpass the school’s enrolment number or within a particular Year Group, the Clare Rowandale Integrated following criteria will be applied in the order set down below: Donacloney Seagoe (CoI) Downshire St Colman’s & All Saints Nursery (i) Children, whose school reports from their present Dromara St Colman’s (Bann) school (and previous schools, if applicable) satisfy the Dromore Central St Colman’s, (Dromore) Principal on past school record and achievement, Drumadonnell St Mary’s (Banbridge) including attendance, behaviour and punctuality, will Edenderry (Banbridge) St Patrick’s (Magheralin) be considered before other applicants. (A satisfactory Fair Hill Tandragee attendance rate would be 90%). In the case of children Iveagh Waringstown whose attendance may have been affected by clearly King’s Park (Lurgan) Windsor Hill documented medical or other problems, the Principal is empowered, in exceptional circumstances, to consider this. Each case will be carefully assessed by the Principal ADMISSION CRITERIA FOR ENTRY TO YEARS 9 – 12 and will necessarily take into account appropriate documentary evidence, medical or otherwise. Applications Procedure (ii) Children who have made application before 1 June Those wishing to apply for entry to Years 9 - 12 must make formal 2021 or applications after this date from children
12 BANBRIDGE ACADEMY - ANNUAL INFORMATION BANBRIDGE ACADEMY - ANNUAL INFORMATION 13 Admissions Policy
who have recently moved into the area. (iii) Applications will be considered in the following order: Applications from a pupil from another school will be considered Year 9, Year 10, Year 11, Year 12. Where two or more after the completion of the admissions process to Sixth Form (Year children meet the requirement for a remaining place, 13) for pupils who undertook GCSE studies in Year 12 at Banbridge Children will be ranked for acceptance on the basis of a Academy. The Board of Governors reserves the right to amend the computer-based process which will make use of the criteria (1-6) listed below for pupils who undertook GCSE studies in names as entered on the Application Form. Year 12 at Banbridge Academy.
The process is carried out by means of a computer programme Pupils from another school wishing to apply for entry to Year 13 must which, for each applicant, generates a ranking number using the make formal application each year using the School Application details from the Application Form as the seed for a random number Form. Full details, including the Application Form, may be obtained generator. The outcome, for any given applicant, is dependent only by writing to the Principal’s Secretary, Banbridge Academy, Lurgan on the applicant’s name (as written on the Application Form), and is Road, Banbridge BT32 4AQ. not affected by the details of any other applicant. Although the process is repeatable, and the results may therefore be subsequently All applications for places must include full details of results obtained verified, it is not possible to predict, in advance of running the at GCSE and be received by 1.00 pm on the day of publication of the programme, what the result will be for any given set of details. final GCSE results. Applications received after this time will only be Applicants with the lowest ranking numbers will be given places up considered for a place if there are places available. Acceptance of a to the number of places available. Further details may be obtained place offered in Banbridge Academy must be received by the School from the Principal. before 1.00 pm on the day following the publication of the final GCSE results. It should be noted that those who have applied but who have been unsuccessful in obtaining a place in the school will be placed on a In order to be considered for a place in Year 13 all of the following waiting list until 1 May 2022, at which time their application will be criteria must be fully met: deemed to have lapsed. Please contact the School if you wish your child’s name to be removed from the relevant Year Group waiting 1. The School’s enrolment number has not been reached. list. The School will contact you in writing if your child gains a place 2. Availability of places in Year 13. in the School by this method. 3. Availability of places in AS subjects selected for study. 4. A minimum of 4 Grade B and 3 Grade C passes (or ADMISSION CRITERIA FOR ENTRY POST 16 (SIXTH FORM) equivalent) at GCSE
Year 13 Including: The Board of Governors of Banbridge Academy has approved the (a) Grade B or above in subjects selected for AS Level criteria listed below and has delegated the task of applying these (b) In subjects not taken in GCSE, Grade B or above in related criteria to the Education Committee, working in conjunction with the GCSE subjects Principal. Further reference, therefore, to the Board of Governors (c) For Mathematics a Grade B or above in Further may imply the Education Committee or the Principal. Mathematics is desirable
14 BANBRIDGE ACADEMY - ANNUAL INFORMATION Admissions Policy
5. The Principal must be satisfied as to the pupil’s past school on the applicant’s name (as written on the Application Form), and is record and achievement including attendance, behaviour and not affected by the details of any other applicant. Although the punctuality. A satisfactory attendance rate would be 90%. process is repeatable, and the results may therefore be subsequently verified, it is not possible to predict, in advance of running the 6. An interview with a senior member of staff of Banbridge programme, what the result will be for any given set of details. Academy. Applicants with the lowest ranking numbers will be given places up to the number of places available. Further details may be obtained If the number of applicants meeting the basic eligibility criteria 1- from the Principal. 6 above exceeds the number of places available: Criteria for any extra places made available by the Department of 7. Applicants will be ranked according to the points score based Education for admission into Year 13 on their best 7 GCSE grades (where a GCSE Grade A* = 4 points, A = 3 points, B = 2 points, C* = 1.5 points and C = 1 The Department of Education may, on request, increase the number point; please note the grade achieved in a GCSE Short Course of pupils that the school can admit to its Year 13. Places that become is worth half the points of a full GCSE Grade i.e. A* = 2 points, available in this way shall be allocated only to pupils who meet the A = 1.5 points, B = 1 point, C* = 0.75 and C = 0.5 of a point). basic eligibility criteria for sixth form study (as above) and shall be Applicants will be selected in accordance with their place in allocated in the order determined by the criteria to be applied in the this rank order of the points score. The Principal will order set down. determine the points awarded for other non-GCSE level 2 qualifications. 1. Pupils who have most recently completed Year 12 in Banbridge Academy. 8. In the event that criterion 7 fails to separate applicants for a remaining place then the total points tally of each applicant 2. Pupils from other schools where admission to an extra place will be used to rank them (where a GCSE Grade A* = 5 points, at Banbridge Academy has been agreed by the Department A = 4 points, B = 3 points, C* = 2 points and C = 1 point). of Education.* Applicants will be selected in accordance with their place in this rank order. *Parents should note how the Department of Education (DE) will, in response to a school’s request, increase the school’s enrolment Where two or more children meet the requirement for a remaining number in order to allow an extra post-16 pupil to enrol. DE will place, children will be ranked for acceptance on the basis of a only increase the school’s enrolment number if it is content that each computer-based process which will make use of the names as external pupil for whom a place is requested would not be able to entered on the Application Form. pursue their post-16 course choices at a suitable school without undertaking an unreasonable journey (i.e. a journey that by public The process is carried out by means of a computer programme transport would be over an hour from where the young person lives). which, for each applicant, generates a ranking number using the If DE finds that no other suitable school may provide all of the post- details from the Application Form as the seed for a random number 16 courses that the pupil wishes to pursue then DE will agree a generator. The outcome, for any given applicant, is dependent only school’s request for an extra place.
BANBRIDGE ACADEMY - ANNUAL INFORMATION 15 Admissions Policy
What is a school of a type that is suitable for a pupil? To determine Education Committee, taking into account the appropriate this, DE first considers all schools to be one of 4 types: (i) documentary evidence. Denominational (ii) Non-denominational (iii) Integrated and (iv) Irish- Medium. A school requesting an extra place for a post-16 pupil will belong to one of these 4 types and DE will consider any other school or schools from this same type as suitable for the pupil. DE will also consider as suitable for the pupil any school from the same type of school that the child attended in Year 12.
Year 14
Banbridge Academy Year 13 pupils should be aware of the following entry requirements for Year 14:
• Pupils must have achieved in AS examinations during Year 13 at least 3 D Grades OR scored a minimum of 7 points in GCE AS subjects only [where A = 5, B = 4, C = 3, D = 2, E = 1]; • Pupils must satisfy the Principal with regard to attitude
behaviour and attendance (a satisfactory attendance rate Psychology Winners would be 90%).
Note also that: • if a pupil achieves less than an E grade in a particular subject they may be precluded from studying the subject in Year 14; • in a few exceptional cases it may be possible for pupils to repeat Year 13, provided they will be under 19 years of age at the time of the DE Census in their final year of School AND that places are available and that the Principal feels it is in the best interests of the pupil to do so. Failure to meet the age requirement will mean that such pupils will automatically lose their place in the School; • pupils whose performance in the AS level examinations may have been detrimentally affected by extreme medical or other problems, the Principal, in consultation with the Chairman of the Education Committee, is empowered, in exceptional cases, to waive the above requirements. Each case will be Northern Ireland Children’s Hospice carefully assessed by the Principal and Chairman of the
16 BANBRIDGE ACADEMY - ANNUAL INFORMATION BANBRIDGE ACADEMY - ANNUAL INFORMATION 17 The Curriculum - Key Stage 3
The school timetable consists of 45 periods per week, each period lasts 35 minutes. SUBJECT Year 8 Year 9 Year 10
KEY STAGE 3 English 5 5 5 Pupils entering Year 8 are organised into 8 unstreamed classes in which they remain throughout Years 9 and I0. All pupils have Mathematics 5 5 5 equal access to the full curriculum. Science and Technology Pupils begin their GCSE Short Course in Religous Studies in Year 10. Science 5 6 6 Technology & Design 2 2 2 The Curriculum provision will be reviewed annually. Environment and Society Geography 2 2 3 History 2 3 3 Home Economics 2 2 2
Creative & Expressive Studies Art & Design 2 2 2 Drama 2 - - Music 2 2 2 Physical Education 2 2 1 Games 3 2 2
Languages French 4 4 3 Spanish - 4 4
Religious Studies 2 2 2
Personal Development, Employability, 3 2 1 Citizenship [LLW] & Careers Education.
Computing 2 - 2
TOTAL PERIODS 45 45 45
18 BANBRIDGE ACADEMY - ANNUAL INFORMATION The Curriculum - Key Stage 4
In Key Stage 4, pupils are divided into an appropriate number of classes. In some subjects this selection is based on either ability and performance or on the requirements of the timetable. All pupils have access to the Areas of Study.
(a) Compulsory subjects English; English Literature; Mathematics; one Modern Language (from French, Spanish); Double Award Science or the three separate Science subjects (Biology, Chemistry, Physics); Religious Studies (Short Course).
(b) Optional subjects Further Mathematics; Art and Design; Business Studies; Computer Science; Economics; Geography; History; Food and Nutrition; Moving Image Arts; a second Modern Language; Music; Religious Studies (Full Course) ; Technology and Design; Physical Education; Digital Technology, MVRUS.
All pupils take 9 Full GCSE subjects except in cases where, in the view of the school and the parents, only 8 subjects would be considered more appropriate.
Most pupils are entered at the Higher Tier in GCSE. In some cases, the school and the parents may agree that entry at a lower level would optimis e their academic potential.
Courses in Physical Education, Games, Learning for Life and Work (Personal Development, Employability, Citizenship) and Careers Education are also provided.
BANBRIDGE ACADEMY - ANNUAL INFORMATION 19 The Curriculum - Years 13 & 14
1. Advanced Levels 2. Careers Education Advanced Level courses are organised into AS (Advanced Classes in Careers Education are available in the Sixth Form. Subsidiary) undertaken in Year 13 and A2 in Year 14. AS and A2 combined constitute an A Level. Subjects are chosen 3. Physical Education and Games from the following list: Art and Design; Biology; Business All pupils will have at least 3 periods of physical activity Studies; Chemistry; Digital Technology; Drama and Theatre per week. Studies; Economics; English Literature; French; Geography; Government and Politics; Health and Social Care; History; 4. Enrichment Programme Mathematics; Further Mathematics; Music; Nutrition and Food Throughout the year there will be a Life Skills programme Science; Physics; Religious Studies; Spanish; Sport and involving guest speakers to address pupils on a variety of Physical Education; Technology and Design; Psychology and social topics. Software Systems Development. 5. Other Courses Pupils choose at least 3 A Level subjects, or with guidance a Sign Language classes, a programme of Community Care, a combination of 4 subjects. Young Enterprise and Chinese are also available.
Classes in minority subjects will be reviewed annually, and if 6. Private Study student demand is low, some subjects may not be available Pupils undertake private study when not in class. Private every year. study is supervised for pupils in Years 13 and 14.
20 BANBRIDGE ACADEMY - ANNUAL INFORMATION The Curriculum
CAREERS EDUCATION provision. LLW is about values, attitudes, skills and is concerned The importance of helping pupils to choose the right career on with the holistic development of an individual, not just the leaving school is recognised. Every effort is made to raise pupils’ learning of knowledge. It is hoped that as a result of this new awareness of opportunities in the many types of careers available module of work we will encourage pupils to become more to them. confident, independent and participative citizens who can make informed and responsible decisions throughout their lives. They Pupils have time-tabled careers classes in Years 10, 12, and the will develop skills that can be employed and transferred across a Sixth Form which prepare them to make informed choices. In range of contexts. Years 10 and 12 pupils also consider options in Further and Higher Education and develop their study skills and presentation skills. Each pupil in Year 12 is offered an interview by the Careers Officer RELIGIOUS STUDIES from the Careers Service (NI). Non-denominational Religious Studies is available to all pupils between the ages of 11 and 16. The course follows the Northern In Year 13, pupils consider opportunities in Higher Education and Ireland Programme of Study. are helped to make realistic choices in relation to their academic potential. The Careers Department organises a Work Shadowing All pupils are assessed in a GCSE course in Religious Studies, either Scheme and facilitates participation in a Higher Education through the Short Course (starting in Year 10) or through the Full Awareness Day. Visits are organised to familiarise pupils with Course. particular careers and attendance at University Open Days is encouraged. Parents may remove their children from Religious Studies classes on the grounds of conscience and for these pupils the school will Training in Interview Skills is provided and each Year 14 student is make alternative provision. given a practice interview in preparation for Higher and Further Education. In Years 13 and 14 interviews are also available with Assemblies are held daily. the Careers Officers. Pupils have access to reference materials (including online resources) in the Careers Library. Careers staff The school places strong emphasis on the non-denominational are available for consultation by pupils and parents (by nature of its intake and ethos. appointment) and presentations are given at Parents’ Evenings.
LEARNING FOR LIFE AND WORK (LLW) LLW is a discrete Learning Area in the Revised Curriculum. It comprises of Personal Development, Employability, Local & Global Citizenship and Home Economics. It seeks to enable pupils to develop their potential in all aspects of their lives. LLW reflects and contributes to the whole school ethos. It is central to the whole curriculum and is consistent with the school’s pastoral care
BANBRIDGE ACADEMY - ANNUAL INFORMATION 21 The Curriculum
CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL EDUCATIONAL NEEDS selected for teams are expected to make participation a priority. The school’s Special Educational Needs Policy conforms to the Code of Parents are very welcome to attend matches. Exemption from Practice on the Identification and Assessment of Special Educational Games and Physical Education will be granted only on medical Needs. grounds or for another sufficient reason, as a result of prior arrangement with the Principal. Arrangements for pupils with Special Educational Needs are made through consultation with the pupils and their parents, the Clubs and Societies operate largely at lunch-time and after school and appropriate staff in school and the EA. pupils (under staff guidance) are encouraged to take a leading part in their management. These include: Charity Committee; Chess Club; A copy of the school’s policy is available on request. Choirs (Junior and Senior); Debating Societies (Junior and Senior); Drama Society; Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme; Orchestra; SPORTS EDUCATION Scripture Union (Junior and Senior); Young Enterprise; Junior Cooks’ The aims of sport in Banbridge Academy are: Club; BAYS; Ski Club; Modern Languages Cine Club; TASK; Leo Club; Warhammer Club; Italian Club. • to promote the physical, social and emotional development of pupils through directed activity; Educational visits and exchanges are an important part of extra- • to provide opportunities to experience a range of sports and curricular activities. Pupil-exchanges with schools in France, Germany sports activities both within the curriculum for Physical and Spain are organised. Numerous other field trips and educational Education and as extra-curricular activities; visits are arranged. There is an annual ski trip to a European resort. • to promote the benefits of sport and sports activities in terms of healthy lifestyles and physical well-being; The Dramatic Society stages a production each year. A school • to encourage and develop skills in a variety of sporting and magazine is produced annually and the Music Department arranges creative activities; public performances each year. • to create an awareness of the benefits of teamwork; • to encourage pupils to continue participation in physical CURRICULUM CONCERNS activities on leaving school. Concerns relating to the curriculum should be addressed in the first instance to the Principal. EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES The school places a very strong emphasis on the value of extra- ACCESS TO INFORMATION curricular activities as a contribution to the education of its pupils, Detailed information on the curriculum and other policies of the particularly in developing social skills, self-esteem, initiative and the school are available to parents from the Principal on request. ability to work as part of a team. MONITORING AND REVIEW OF THE CURRICULUM Games provided include: athletics, badminton, cricket, cross-country The curriculum in Banbridge Academy is reviewed annually. The running, football, golf, hockey, netball, rugby, soccer, squash and curriculum is supported by appropriate methods of assessment, tennis. Sports Day is held towards the end of May each year. Pupils recording and reporting progress to parents.
22 BANBRIDGE ACADEMY - ANNUAL INFORMATION BANBRIDGE ACADEMY - ANNUAL INFORMATION 23 Homework
In Key Stage 3 a homework timetable is provided and the school requires an average of 4 homework tasks per night. Homeworks should be distributed equitably between subjects and each homework should last approximately 20 to 30 minutes.
In Key Stage 4 the school requires an average of 2 homework tasks in each GCSE subject per week; each task should last approximately 30 minutes. It should be noted that GCSE requires the completion of Controlled Assessments in a number of subjects. Information on Controlled Assessments is made available on the school website.
In Years 13 and 14, homework and private study tasks are set at the direction of each department and by the subject teacher.
The school lays strong emphasis on the importance of homework and private study as a means of:
(a) giving pupils the experience of self-regulated study; (b) raising and maintaining academic standards; (c) extending and supplementing the work taught in class; (d) preparation for the self-discipline required in Higher Education.
Parents are encouraged to provide suitable facilities and support for the completion of homework and the preparation for examinations.
Homework arrangements may be relaxed for special occasions and around school holidays.
Parents who have any concerns about homework are encouraged to contact the Principal.
24 BANBRIDGE ACADEMY - ANNUAL INFORMATION Pastoral Care
PASTORAL CARE ARRANGEMENTS Child Protection Policy & Procedures For the purposes of the Pastoral System, each Year Group is Banbridge Academy acknowledges its pastoral responsibility divided into 8 Form Classes; each Form Class is in the care of a towards its pupils and recognises that its pupils have a Form Teacher and the work of the Form Teachers is co-ordinated fundamental right to be protected from harm. The school seeks to by Year Heads. provide a safe, pleasant and regulated environment and to assist each child to reach personal fulfilment and happiness. The Pastoral System is under the supervision of a Vice Principal. Our Child Protection Policy is reviewed annually. Statements of our Each Form Class meets its Form Teacher in the morning for Policies and Procedures, including Procedures for Handling registration and to deal with any problems that might arise. The Complaints, are available on the school website. Form Teacher interviews each pupil in his/her Form Class after each set of examinations, encourages participation in the extra- In the first instance, parents who have concerns or a specific curricular programme and generally counsels his/her pupils on complaint about their (or another) child should speak directly to work, personal and social development and discipline. the Principal, Mr McLoughlin, or to the designated teacher, Mrs Evans. Year 14 Form Prefects are attached to each Form Class in Year 8 and act as mentors, helping pupils settle in.
The School Council, which is made up of representatives from each year group and members of staff, meets once a month to consult on school issues.
In the event of individual problems, parents should initially contact the Form Teacher or Year Head and, if necessary, the Vice Principal or the Principal.
BANBRIDGE ACADEMY - ANNUAL INFORMATION 25 Anti-Bullying Policy
RATIONALE Bullying may be defined as the repeated use of power by one or • Involvement in Anti-Bullying week more people intentionally to harm, hurt or adversely affect the rights • Obtaining the views of elected pupil representatives and needs of another or others. In Banbridge Academy we seek to (School Council) provide for our pupils a safe and caring environment where bullying • Questionnaires distributed to parents, pupils and whole will not be tolerated. school staff • Parents’ awareness raising programmes e.g. leaflets, posters PREAMBLE • Anti-Bullying Ambassadors Programme The welfare of all pupils is paramount and pupils’ needs, whether the pupil displaying bullying behaviour or targeted pupil, should be AIMS OF THE POLICY separated from their behaviour. In Banbridge Academy we do not 1. To identify various elements of bullying. want to label pupils unfairly so we will use the term ‘pupil who has 2. To promote means of preventing bullying. been bullied’ or ‘target of bullying’ instead of ‘victim’. Instead of 3. To establish procedures for staff in dealing with cases of alleged ‘bully’ we will use the term ‘pupil who is displaying bullying or suspected bullying. behaviour’. 4. To offer guidance and clarify procedures for parents. 5. To offer guidance to pupils. When bullying concerns are identified we will work in a restorative and solution focused way to achieve the necessary change. ELEMENTS OF BULLYING • Pupils who are targeted will be listened to, supported As the wilful, conscious desire to hurt, threaten or frighten someone, and strengthened. bullying can take many forms: • Pupils who engage in bullying behaviour will be listened to and 1. Physical, for example, pushing, hitting, kicking, spitting, theft, supported to accept responsibility and change their behaviour. damage to belongings. 2. Verbal, for example, threats, name-calling, teasing, taunting, The 2003 Statutory Requirements (Education and Libraries NI Order) spreading rumours, passing malicious notes. requires schools to use measures to “encourage good behaviour and 3. Indirect, for example, excluding someone from the social group, respect for others” and in particular prevent bullying among pupils. tormenting, hiding other pupils’ belongings, being unfriendly, making threatening gestures, staring. The legislation also requires the Board of Governors and Principal to 4. Cyber bullying which may include misusing mobile phones/ consult with pupils, parents and staff regarding positive behaviour computer and internet programmes to humiliate, threaten and and bullying prevention measures which must be in place. This is isolate another as well as bullying through Social Network Sites, especially necessary if the policy is being reviewed or there are messaging and chat rooms. significant changes made. Pupils may be targeted on the basis of race, religion, culture, gender, homophobic bullying including perceived sexual orientation or We have met this requirement in the following ways: identity. Often there is no theme evident in bullying behaviour but • Awareness raising programmes through the Curriculum, Form we believe that all bullying behaviour is wrong. Time, Assemblies • The person displaying bullying behaviour takes pleasure in the
26 BANBRIDGE ACADEMY - ANNUAL INFORMATION Anti-Bullying Policy
targeted pupils’ pain, fear and humiliation. • We will assess and plan appropriate interventions with reference • Bullying often manifests itself in the repeated use of power over to the School’s Discipline Policy and NIABF Interventions others. Framework and Guidance document, Effective responses to • Bullying can be carried out by an individual or a group. Bullies bullying. sometimes try to involve others in their activities and onlookers • In determining the level of severity, staff should take account of can unwittingly become part of the bullying. the nature, frequency and duration of the bullying behaviour as • Early signs of distress in pupils, for example, deterioration of well as the perceptions of the targeted pupil. work, spurious illness, isolation, erratic attendance or the desire • All cases of bullying must be reported to the Year Head and to remain with adults may be symptoms of bullying. serious cases must be referred to the Vice Principal (Pastoral). • Very serious or persistent cases of bullying will be referred to the PREVENTION OF BULLYING EA (Southern Region) Pupil Personal Development Services who • High standards of teaching and learning, an effective pastoral will work alongside school in an advisory capacity. If appropriate, system and good relationships between pupils and between staff the Educational Welfare Officer may be involved and where and pupils help to create an ethos in which good behaviour is necessary, Child Protection Procedures will be instigated. promoted and maintained. • The issue of bullying is addressed in Assemblies and Form Time. GUIDANCE & PROCEDURES FOR PARENTS Coping strategies are developed in Personal Development lessons • Parents who suspect that their child is being bullied should and in other parts of the curriculum, for example, English. contact the school immediately. The initial contact may be to • Visiting speakers and drama groups are invited from time to time the Form Teacher, Year Head, Vice Principal (Pastoral) or to to explore the problem of bullying. the Principal. • Anti-bullying training is a regular part of the Staff Professional • Parents who report an incident of bullying will be informed of Development programme. the outcome of the investigations and the steps to be taken. • Effective supervision of the school buildings and grounds before • A leaflet on Bullying containing advice for parents and for pupils school, at break and at lunchtime is essential to prevent is placed on the website. opportunities for bullying. This means that all staff must be alert Copies are available from the school office on request. all times, including between classes, to the possibility of bullying occurring. GUIDANCE FOR PUPILS • In promoting a climate of care in the school, pupils are • Pupils are encouraged not to neglect their own welfare as well encouraged regularly to discuss with a member of staff or a as caring for others. school counsellor any concerns about themselves or • Pupils who are being bullied or who know that someone else is another pupil. being bullied should report the matter to a teacher at the first opportunity. PROCEDURES FOR STAFF IN CASES OF ALLEGED OR SUSPECTED • A leaflet on Bullying containing advice for pupils will be issued to BULLYING all pupils in Year 8. A copy of the leaflet will be displayed in all • Where there is an allegation or suspicion of bullying, the incident Form rooms and Form Teachers will remind pupils of the advice will be thoroughly and sensitively investigated. at regular intervals. • Teachers who are dealing with bullying will follow school policy.
BANBRIDGE ACADEMY - ANNUAL INFORMATION 27 Anti-Bullying Policy
RELATED SCHOOL POLICIES This policy is set within the broader school context of Pastoral Care This policy links with the Safeguarding Policy in which the school and as such should be read in conjunction with the following school outlines the steps it will take to protect children from harm and policies: develop their own personal safety strategies. Sometimes bullying • Pastoral Care Policy behaviour and its impact on pupils may cause such distress and • Safeguarding Policy significant harm that a referral to the Safeguarding Team is necessary • Positive Behaviour Policy and this will be progressed following the normal Child Protection • Online Safety Policy procedures.
Misuse of Substances/Controlled Drugs Education Policy RATIONALE • Volatile substances such as correcting fluid or thinners, gas lighter The Misuse of Drugs is a growing problem in Northern Ireland and is fuel, aerosols, glues and petrol a major threat to individuals, families and to the wider community. • Controlled drugs such as cannabis, LSD, ecstasy, amphetamine Banbridge Academy is committed to the safety and well-being of its sulphate (speed), magic mushrooms, heroin and cocaine pupils and therefore does not condone the misuse of drugs, the • New psychoactive substances (NPS), formerly known as illegal possession or supply of such substances. ‘legal highs’ • Other substances such as amyl or butyl nitrite (known as poppers) Within this policy statement the terms Drugs and substances include any product which, when taken, has the effect of altering the way Drug use refers to taking a drug: there is no value judgement, the body works or the way a person feels, sees or thinks. although all drug use has an element of risk.
As well as everyday products such as tea and coffee, substances Drug Misuse refers to legal, illegal or illicit drug taking or alcohol include: consumption which leads a person to experience social, • Alcohol, tobacco and tobacco related products, including nicotine psychological, physical or legal problems related to intoxication or replacement therapy (NRT) and electronic cigarettes regular excessive consumption and/or dependence. Drug misuse is • Over-the-counter medicines such as paracetamol and cough therefore taking drugs, including prescribed drugs and NPS, that medicine cause harm to the individual, their significant others and the wider • Prescribed drugs such as antibiotics, painkillers, antidepressants, community. antipsychotics, inhalers and stimulants such as Ritalin 28 BANBRIDGE ACADEMY - ANNUAL INFORMATION Misuse of Substances/Controlled Drugs Education Policy Tobacco and electronic cigarettes, although not Controlled Drugs, are support to develop and deliver an effective drugs not allowed in school or on school activities in line with DENI circular education programme. 2014/15. Procedures are in place within the Positive Behaviour Policy to address these issues. LEGISLATION AND GUIDANCE It is the policy of this school to comply with the legal requirements We want our pupils to make informed and responsible decisions laid down in the Misuse of Drugs Act (1971) and other relevant about drugs by increasing their knowledge and by developing in legislation and guidance including the DENI circular 2015/23 and them appropriate values, attitudes and skills. However, we recognise ‘Drugs Guidance for Schools in NI- Revised Edition 2015’. that drug misuse is a whole-community issue and that schools alone cannot solve the drugs problem. The school is only one of a number In keeping with requirements we will publish relevant sections of of groups and agencies which must play a part in the education of our Misuse of Substances/Drugs Education Policy in our school young people and we draw on the expertise of external agencies prospectus. A copy of the policy may also be obtained from school. where possible. THE ORGANISATION & MANAGEMENT of the DRUGS EDUCATION AIMS AND OBJECTIVES PROGRAMME 1. To develop a consistent approach to drug-related issues in line Banbridge Academy’s Drugs Education Programme is set in the with the school’s pastoral care provision. context of abstinence. 2. To promote among pupils positive attitudes to their own personal health. The Drugs Education programme is co-ordinated by a Vice Principal 3. To develop, implement and review a drugs education programme and the Personal Development co-ordinator. It is the view of this within the curriculum which will provide pupils with opportunities school that education surrounding drugs/substance misuse should to acquire an understanding of the use and misuse of drugs. not be taught in isolation, but rather as an integral part of our 4. To help pupils to understand the risks and effects of drugs misuse curriculum. It is currently delivered at Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4 on themselves and others. as part of the programme of study in a range of subjects and by the 5. To help pupils to make informed and responsible decisions about involvement of appropriate outside agencies eg visiting drama the use of drugs. groups and speakers. Drugs Education modules are delivered by our 6. To help pupils to develop skills to withstand pressure from their own staff to all pupils in Years 8, 9 and 11 as part of our Personal peers and others. Development and LLW programmes, supported by PSNI, REACT and 7. To enable pupils to identify sources of guidance and support Policing and Community Safety Partnership. External agencies who as appropriate. deliver drugs education in school, are asked to complete a service 8. To establish an environment free from the misuse of level agreement. all substances. 9. To develop procedures and protocols that address drug-related The Health Education Programme also makes a valuable contribution issues across all areas of school life. to Drugs Education. 10. To establish procedures for managing specific incidents of suspected drug misuse. 11. To empower teaching staff through appropriate training and
BANBRIDGE ACADEMY - ANNUAL INFORMATION 29 Positive Behaviour Policy
The School prides itself on its happy atmosphere and the excellent 2 PRINCIPLES relationships that exist amongst pupils and between teachers and In order to promote, develop and achieve high standards in all pupils. areas of school life the school policy is based on the following principles: RATIONALE 2.1 Acceptance by pupils entering the school - and by Good behaviour is essential if pupils are to achieve high standards. their parents, of the Pupil Code of Conduct and of It keeps pupils safe, reduces stress for teachers and contributes to School Sanctions; a welcoming and caring environment in which pupils can develop 2.2 Awareness of the need for self-discipline and respect as people and both pupils and teachers can do their best work. for others; 2.3 Effective home-school liaison; A climate which fosters effective learning is best promoted 2.4 The indivisibility of discipline; through the creation and maintenance of good relationships and 2.5 A consistent approach to discipline; positive behaviour. 2.6 An effective pastoral system; 2.7 A relevant curriculum; This policy sits within the context of Pastoral Care, which we 2.8 High pupil motivation; recognise as having central importance within Banbridge Academy 2.9 Good teaching and amicable teacher-pupil as we seek to provide for our pupils a safe and caring environment relationships; in which they can develop their full personal and academic 2.10 A pleasant environment. potential. 3 PROMOTING POSITIVE BEHAVIOUR This policy provides a framework to enable pupils, parents and All members of staff have responsibility for the promotion of staff to understand the standards of behaviour required in positive behaviour. Banbridge Academy Ways in which positive behaviour is encouraged are: 1 AIMS • Positive relationships modelled by colleagues 1.1 To create a happy and achieving community within a • Positive affirmation by all teachers in the classroom and in regulated and pleasant environment. extra-curricular activities 1.2 To promote self-discipline and encourage an • Regular marking of work and positive feedback to pupils increasing acceptance of responsibility as a • Positive and encouraging comments in reports preparation for adult life. • Letters of congratulation 1.3 To encourage the development of positive attitudes • Awards presented on Prize Day and other ceremonies as shown by consideration for others, tolerance, • Regular announcements and opportunities for congratulations respect and good manners. in Assemblies, daily notices, digital signage, school website 1.4 To enhance the pupils’ self-esteem and foster and magazine respect for self, others and the environment. Banbridge Academy has developed a system for noting positive
30 BANBRIDGE ACADEMY - ANNUAL INFORMATION Positive Behaviour Policy
and negative behaviours and a system of rewards and sanctions. Staff have a responsibility to: • Act as positive role models at all times 4 RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES • Follow the guidance of the ‘Teaching and Learning’ policy by Pupils have a right to: producing effective lessons and setting and marking • Be valued as members of the school community appropriate homework • Get help when they need it with academic or personal issues • Show interest and enthusiasm in their pupils’ learning • Be treated fairly, consistently and with respect • Listen to the pupils, value their contributions and respect their • Be consulted about matters that affect them, and have their views views listened to e.g. through the School Council • Be sympathetic, approachable and alert to pupils in difficulty or • Be taught in a pleasant, well-managed and safe environment falling behind • Play an active role in the school community within a clearly • Identify and seek to meet pupils’ additional needs defined and fairly administered code of conduct • Share with parents concerns they may have about their child’s • Experience a broad and balanced curriculum and, where progress or development necessary, have additional needs addressed. • Expect high standards and acknowledge effort and achievement Pupils have a responsibility to: • Be punctual, organised and meet all deadlines set Parents have a right to: • Use their student planner appropriately • A safe, well-managed and stimulating environment for their • Respect the views, rights and property of others, and behave child’s education safely in and out of class • Reasonable access to the school, and to have their enquiries • Be supportive, respectful and helpful towards pupils and staff and concerns dealt with sympathetically and efficiently • Be honest and fair in dealing with others • Be informed promptly if their child is ill or has an accident, or if • Engage fully with the curriculum, seeking help if required the school has concerns about their child • Conform to the conventions of good behaviour and abide by • Be informed about their child’s progress the Pupil Code of Conduct • Be informed about school rules and procedures • Wear their uniform with pride according to the uniform list • A broad, balanced and appropriate curriculum for their child • Accept ownership for their behaviour and learning, and • Be involved in key decisions about their child’s education develop the skill of working independently • Behave in a manner which reflects the aims and ethos of Parents have a responsibility to: Banbridge Academy • Ensure that their child attends school regularly and arrives punctually, with homework done and suitably organised Staff have a right to: • Be aware of school rules and regulations and encourage their • Be valued as members of the school community child to abide by them • Be treated fairly, consistently and with courtesy and respect at • Show interest in their child’s classwork and homework, and all times where possible, provide a suitable learning environment at home
BANBRIDGE ACADEMY - ANNUAL INFORMATION 31 Positive Behaviour Policy
• Act as positive role-models for their child in their relationship 7.1 Referral with school Persistent or serious matters should be referred as follows: • Attend planned meetings with teachers and support school 4.1.1 On pastoral matters and on general matters of discipline: functions Teacher to Form Teacher to Year Head to SLT as necessary. • Provide the school with the updated, necessary background 4.1.2 On academic matters: Teacher to Head of Department to information about their child/family, which might impact on SLT as necessary. The Form Teacher should be informed his/her learning. at an early stage. 4.1.3 Referral to parents will be at the discretion of the School. 5 RECOGNITION OF GOOD BEHAVIOUR At every stage the welfare of individual pupils and the wider 7.2 SANCTIONS school population is considered to be paramount. Every effort will 4.2.1 For minor offences sanctions such as extra work or be made to support pupils in our endeavour to promote positive lunchtime detention will be imposed, at the discretion of behaviour. A non-exhaustive list of rewards in recognition of good the teacher concerned. behaviour includes: verbal praise from staff, selection to positions 4.2.2 Lunchtime detention will be supervised on a of responsibility, interview with the Principal, letters of departmental/Year Head basis and will last no longer than congratulations and merit certificates. When appropriate, members 25 minutes to enable pupils to have lunch. Repeated of staff should log examples of positive behaviour on SIMS. lunchtime detentions may lead to a Friday afternoon detention. However, if unacceptable behaviour occurs, it should be logged on 4.2.3 Friday Detention (3.30 - 4.30pm) will be used for serious SIMS. The relevant member of staff will impose sanctions which or repeated offences. Parents will be notified of these seek to effect a change in that behaviour. detentions 24 hours in advance. 4.2.4 Saturday morning detention which will last for 1 ½ hours, 6 THE CODE OF CONDUCT FOR PUPILS under the supervision of the Principal/SLT, may also be The code of conduct for pupils sets out the school’s expectations of used as a sanction for very serious offences. Repeated all its pupils. It contains sections on Saturday morning detentions may lead to suspension. • Behaviour and Good Manners 4.2.5 For more serious offences the parents will be asked to • Attendance come to the school to speak to the Principal, another • Safety and Security Senior Member of staff or to members of the Discipline • School Property, Personal Property and the Property of Others Committee of the Board of Governors. • Out-of bounds Areas 4.2.6 Withdrawal from classes will be imposed at the discretion • Uniform and Personal Appearance of the Principal for very serious offences and/or an accumulation of offences. This sanction will involve the 7 DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURES pupil being removed from classes for a stated period and It is the responsibility of all staff to deal with incidents as they given work to do in school. The parents and the Board of arise and to apply appropriate sanctions. In addition incidents Governors will be informed. should be noted on the Behaviour Management System. 4.2.7 Suspension, in which the pupil will be made to stay at
32 BANBRIDGE ACADEMY - ANNUAL INFORMATION Positive Behaviour Policy
home for a stated period, will be imposed for very serious offences and/or an accumulation of offences. It will be administered by the Principal, with the approval of the Chairman of the Board of Governors, in accordance with EA procedures. 4.2.8 Expulsion will be sought for extremely serious offences and/or an accumulation of offences. It will be administered by the Principal and the Board of Governors in accordance with EA procedures.
This Discipline Policy will be applied to all pupils including those with Special Educational Needs in accordance with the Special Educational Needs and Disability Order (2005).
Related School Policies This policy is set within the broader school context of Pastoral Care and as such should be read in conjunction with the following school policies: • Pastoral Care Policy • Safeguarding Policy • Anti-bullying Policy • Misuse of Substances /Controlled Drugs Policy • Special Educational Needs Policy
BANBRIDGE ACADEMY - ANNUAL INFORMATION 33 34 BANBRIDGE ACADEMY - ANNUAL INFORMATION BANBRIDGE ACADEMY - ANNUAL INFORMATION 35 School Uniform
The School requires all its pupils to adhere strictly to the uniform requirements which help to maintain a good corporate spirit and tidiness in personal appearance. All items should be named. The school uniform is:
ALL GIRLS BOYS Tie: Petrol blue with red and black stripes Tie: Petrol blue with red and black stripes Sixth Form Tie Sixth Form Tie Blazer: Petrol blue with school badge Blazer: Black with badge Skirt: Petrol blue with pleats (to the knee) Trousers: Black/Dark grey Pullover: Petrol blue V-neck (optional) Pullover: Petrol blue V-neck (optional) Blouse: White Shirt: White Shoes: Flat dark brown Socks: Dark grey or black Socks or Tights: Cream tights or cream coloured knee-length socks Shoes: Black – all year groups can wear either Scarf: Petrol blue with red and black stripes (optional) Scarf: Petrol blue with red and black stripes (optional) Coat: Black crested waterproof jacket (optional) Coat: Black crested waterproof jacket (optional) The blazer is a compulsory item of uniform. The blazer is a compulsory item of uniform. PE KIT - BOYS PE KIT - GIRLS Academy sports jersey (crested) White and red crested T-shirt Black shorts Black skort Sports/Games socks White ankle socks (gym) PE - White ankle/pop socks Red knee-length socks (hockey) Rugby/football boots Indoor training shoes with non-marking soles White and red crested T-shirt Outdoor training shoes Indoor training shoes with non-marking soles Shin guards and mouth guard Outdoor training shoes Black crested Academy hoodie (optional) Shin guards and mouth guard Black crested waterproof jacket (optional) Black crested Academy hoodie (optional) School tracksuit (optional) Black crested waterproof jacket (optional) School tracksuit (optional)
Pupils representing the school on teams are expected to travel in school uniform and to use the kit recommended by the school. The black crested waterproof jacket and/or black crested Academy hoodie may be worn on the way to/from school and at sporting fixtures. Other alternative hoodies are not permitted. Please note that girls may wear black leggings during a fixture/training session but leggings must not be worn around the school.
Official suppliers: Official suppliers are: Donaghys & Shoefair Sport, R Fields, S D Kells, Small & Co, Dromore; Maxwell’s, Lurgan.
36 BANBRIDGE ACADEMY - ANNUAL INFORMATION Charging and Remissions Policy
The statutory curriculum is provided within school hours and its Breakages and damages provision is free of charge. However, the following points should Parents will be required to make a contribution towards the cost of be noted: repair or replacement, occasioned by damage caused by their child to school property. School Fund The School asks parents to contribute annually a voluntary Examination fees payment to enable it to provide a wide range of extra and co- (GCSE, AS and A2 Level) will be paid by the school except in a curricular activities which contribute significantly to a child’s subject for which the school has not prepared the pupil. Fees for education. The School Fund helps to facilitate music, drama, sport re-sitting examinations will not normally be paid by the School. and other clubs and societies across the school as well as subsidise educational visits, field trips, entry fees for competitions, the hire Music of buses and the costs associated with the supervision of pupils Where instrumental tuition is an optional extra with the EA, a participating in such activities. In addition, it provides insurance for charge of £50 per annum will be made for the instrument. Lessons injury to pupils and a lost property compensation scheme. are currently charged at £327 per annum, per individual pupil.
Details of both schemes are available from the school on request. REMISSION OF CHARGES The statutory educational activities organised during a residential The School may from time to time ask for further voluntary trip must be free of charge. Please note that board and lodging contributions from parents. charges may be remitted (within a limited scale) in respect of pupils whose parents are in receipt of Income Support or Family School trips and field trips Income Benefit for any part of the duration of the trip. For certain educational trips, field trips and sports tours, parents may be required to contribute full costs in cases where the trip MID-ACADEMIC YEAR CHANGES takes place mainly outside school hours and is not directly related Any changes in the above information, due to unforeseen to the statutory curriculum. For trips which take place mainly circumstances, will be indicated to parents in writing. within school hours, parents will be asked to contribute full costs of board, residence and transport (except where there is a subsidy from the School Fund).
Materials for practical subjects On certain occasions pupils will be asked to supply materials or their cost for practical work in Home Economics, Technology and Art, on the understanding that the finished product becomes the property of the pupil.
BANBRIDGE ACADEMY - ANNUAL INFORMATION 37 Public Examinations
GCSE A Level Most pupils in Year 12 are entered for 9 GCSE subjects. Some All pupils are entered for examinations in a minimum of 3 A Level pupils, in consultation with parents, are entered for only 8 subjects. subjects. The majority of subjects are provided through NICCEA and pupils are entered at Higher Level. In a small number of subjects pupils Examination results for the summer of 2020 are set out in the will be entered, with the agreement of parents, at a lower level. following tables.
38 BANBRIDGE ACADEMY - ANNUAL INFORMATION Public Examinations
GCSE RESULTS 2020 Subject Entries A* ABC* CDEUA*-C A*-G Art & Design 34 15 11 422000 34 34 Biology 92 20 46 21 1400 0 92 92 Business Studies 43 4 11 11 7442 0 37 43 Chemistry 92 34 35 18 3200 0 92 92 Computer Science 28 6 15 601000 28 28 DA Science 208 24 59 54 30 30 11 00197 208 Digital Technology 22 4 11 430000 22 22 Economics 12 24321000 12 12 English Language 196 44 103 37 7500 0 196 196 English Literature 196 61 59 44 26 4200 194 196 Food & Nutrition 32 7 10 10 2300 0 32 32 French 85 22 28 20 8340 0 81 85 Further Mathematics 69 36 22 920000 69 69 Geography 55 12 24 11 7100 0 55 55 German 47 5 10 11 8850 0 42 47 History 97 18 32 23 11 7600 91 97 Mathematics 196 79 71 38 6200 0 196 196 Motor Vehicle Studies 20 04745000 20 20 Music 10 45100000 10 10 PE Studies 26 28853000 26 26 Physics 92 22 38 23 7200 0 92 92 Religious Studies 56 24 16 15 0100 0 56 56 Spanish 71 19 18 15 14 5000 71 71 Technology 35 5 10 13 3301 0 34 35
Number of Year 12 Pupils on 31st October 2019 195 Number with a statement of Special Educational Needs: 0 GCSE RESULTS 2020 SUMMARY % Entered for % Entered for % Achieving % Achieving % Achieving 7 or more subjects 5 or more subjects Grades A* - C Grades A* - C No GCSEs in 7 or more in 5 or more 100 100 98 100 0
BANBRIDGE ACADEMY - ANNUAL INFORMATION 39 Public Examinations
A LEVEL RESULTS 2020 Subject Entries A* AB CD EUA* – C A* – E Art & Design 15 644100015 15 Biology 76 11 26 20 15 40072 76 Business Studies 31 2516 800031 31 Chemistry 49 11 16 14 530046 49 Digital Technology 8133100088 Drama 4022000044 English Literature 38 8 14 13 300038 38 Food & Nutrition 11 233300011 11 French 4130000044 Further Mathematics 1100000011 Geography 26 4 10 10 200026 26 German 4121000044 Health & Social Care 17 0410 300017 17 History 31 3713 710030 31 Mathematics 52 16 22 8510051 52 Music 1100000011 Physics 17 354221014 17 Politics 23 2910 200023 23 Psychology 36 6911 820034 36 Religious Studies 9252000099 Spanish 10 234100010 10 Sports Science 14 136400014 14 SSD 12 651000012 12 Technology 15 265200015 15
A LEVELS 2020 SUMMARY No. of Pupils in Final % Achieving 3 or more % Achieving 2 or more % Achieving 1 or more Year of A Level Course passes at Grades A – C passes at Grades A – E passes at Grades A – E 166 91.6 100 100
40 BANBRIDGE ACADEMY - ANNUAL INFORMATION Public Examinations
PERFORMANCE IN PUBLIC EXAMINATIONS 1 2015/16 to 2019/20 – Grammar Schools
Performance Indicator 2015/16 2016/17 2017/18 2018/19 2019/20 School NI School NI School NI School NI School NI Average Average Average Average Average % Achieving 5+ GCSEs at Grades A*-C 97.8 96.5 96.8 96.5 97.90 96 99.00 96.1 100 N/A (or equivalent) 1 % Achieving 7+ GCSEs at Grades A*-C 97.3 92.1 93.6 91.2 96.90 90.7 93.30 90.5 98 N/A (or equivalent) 1 % Achieving 3+ A levels at Grades A*-C 78 76.3 85.2 78.1 88.13 78.1 85.10 79.7 91.6 N/A (or equivalent) 1 % Achieving 2+ A levels at Grades A*-E 99.4 99.5 100 99.7 99.38 99.5 100.00 99.6 100 N/A (or equivalent) 1
1Excludes pupils with statements of Special Educational Needs.
BANBRIDGE ACADEMY - ANNUAL INFORMATION 41 Public Examinations
YEAR 13 AND 14
OTHER EXAMINATIONS
Name of Awarding Body Qualification Number in Final Year % Achieving of Course Qualification CACDP Sign Language BSL Unit 1 24 100
SCHOOL LEAVERS’ DESTINATIONS 2018/2019 (FROM YEARS 12, 13 & 14) Number of Leavers 2019/20: 197
% of Leavers to: Higher Further Another Job Skills Employment Other Education Education School Years 12 - 14 77.89% 7.54% 5.03% 2.01% 0.53% 7.04% Year 14 93.37% 3.61% 0% 2.41% 0.60% 0.00%
1This figure represents the % of all School Leavers entering Higher Education from Years 12-14 in 2019/2020 . In practice, only Year 14 students enter Higher Education directly. In 2019/2020, 93.4% of Year 14 Leavers secured a place in Higher Education.
Annual attendance rate (all pupils)
Total days attended by all pupils on roll as a % of total possible days of attendance: 94.6%
42 BANBRIDGE ACADEMY - ANNUAL INFORMATION Parents and the School
The work of Banbridge Academy is based on partnership, with parents and staff operating in the interests of the pupils. Parents may contact the School at any stage to discuss their son/daughter’s progress. Parent Consultation meetings are held annually for this purpose and also to provide information and guidance in relation to subject choice and careers. Pupils thrive academically and socially in conditions where strong parental support exists for the pupil and for the School. Homework will be set regularly for all pupils and it is hoped that parents will provide the conditions and encouragement which enable it to be completed properly. A clearly defined Homework Timetable is given in Years 8 - 10.
Parents should note that pupils enter the school on the assumption that they accept its ethos, rules and regulations.
Parents are encouraged to join the Banbridge Academy Association, membership of which is also open to former pupils. The Association organises educational talks and meetings, as well as social and fund-raising events. Enquiries should be addressed to the Secretary of the Association at the School. The AGM is held in the Autumn of each year.
CONCLUSION DOCUMENTS TO BE MADE AVAILABLE FOR PARENTS Banbridge Academy provides, through a highly qualified All copies of documents to be made available for parents will be teaching staff, the full Northern Ireland Curriculum. Excellent kept by the Principal. Any parent wishing to view these results are achieved in a very happy atmosphere and in a documents should contact the Principal’s Secretary, with whom pleasant modern environment. The staff provide a broad and suitable arrangements may be made. rich programme of extra-curricular activities. Parents who have an interest in the School or who have any enquiries are invited It should be noted that, although the information contained in this to contact the Principal by telephone, letter or e-mail. prospectus was correct at the time of publication, however it may be subject to further change.
BANBRIDGE ACADEMY - ANNUAL INFORMATION 43 Banbridge Academy T: 028 4062 3220 Lurgan Road F: 028 4062 8122 Banbridge W: www.banbridgeacademy.org.uk County Down BT32 4AQ E: [email protected]